Russia and China work on simplifying mutual tourist trips

Russia and China are working on amending the intergovernmental agreement on visa-free group tourist trips to create even more favourable conditions for mutual travel. This was announced at a briefing by Maria Zakharova, the Official Representative of the Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

She noted that tourists from Russia and China are actively using the visa-free travel opportunity.

“In 2024, more than 1 million people made use of this mechanism, including 567,000 Chinese tourists and 468,000 Russians. Almost 50 to 50 per cent, perhaps with a slight advantage on the side of Chinese tourists”

Maria Zakharova Official Representative of the Russian Foreign Ministry

According to the diplomat, one of the key tasks of the relevant agencies is not only to create conditions for travel and strengthen tourism ties between the countries but also to promote mutual cultural awareness, especially given the extensive border between Russia and China.

Zakharova recalled that Chinese citizens can obtain a multiple-entry tourist visa for six months if they have a reservation at a registered hotel. In addition, a unified electronic visa (UEV) valid for 60 days is available, allowing a stay in Russia of up to 16 days. She added that in the near future, the UEV’s validity period is expected to be extended to 120 days, while the permitted stay will be increased to 30 days.

Photo: Russian Foreign Ministry